Since you were young, you were told that you need to floss each day in order to prevent issues like interproximal cavities and periodontal disease. However, it hasn’t always been considered a crucial step of the average personal hygiene routine. In fact, dental floss has only been around for about two hundred years. Continue reading to learn more about the interesting history of this essential dental tool.
The Invention of Dental Floss
Dental floss begins with a dentist named Levi Spear Parmly. He practiced dentistry in New Orleans back in 1819 and noted that there were some areas of the mouth that a toothbrush couldn’t reach. Patients would commonly experience gum irritation, gingivitis, and even periodontitis. He was trying to come up with a creative solution for this issue and ended up with waxed silk thread. After seeing its effectiveness, he believed it to be the most important part of oral healthcare. He wrote about it in his book: Practical Guide to the Management of Teeth.
Floss in Stores
While dental floss was invented in the early 1800s, it wasn’t available in stores for many decades later. It was first seen on the shelves back in 1882 when a company called ‘Codman & Shurtleff’ began selling unwaxed silk floss. Before this, toothpicks were a common tool used to dislodge food from between the teeth. Johnson & Johnson eventually were able to secure the first patent for silk dental floss.
Switching to Nylon
Silk was usually the material used to make dental floss, but it has a tendency to shred. Dr. Charles C. Bass created an alternative floss made from nylon instead. This is still one of the most widely sourced materials that is used to make the dental tool. After this development, a waxed version came out. This was more popular because it was more comfortable, especially for people who had smaller gaps between their teeth.
An Essential Oral Hygiene Step
Flossing became mainstream in North America in the 1970s. This is when doctors began recommending that their patients floss at least once a day in order to maintain optimal oral health. However, many people still don’t floss on a regular basis. In fact, according to studies by the American Dental Association, only 16% of Americans report flossing every single day.
Floss hasn’t always been what it is today. By using it daily, as well as seeing your dentist for regular checkups, you are taking a huge step towards achieving and maintaining excellent oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Tony Nguyen earned his dental doctorate from the Nova Southeastern College of Dental Medicine and is committed to taking continuing education courses. Currently, he is pursuing his Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry. He is also a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, SPEAR, and the International Dental Implant Association. To learn more about proper oral hygiene or to schedule an appointment at his office in Midlothian, visit his website or call (972) 723-1148.